How does it feel to be an only child?

I was adopted and raised as an only child. As an adult, I met my birth family so now I have siblings.

I didn't like growing up without a brother or sister for many reasons. And I hated, and still hate, being viewed as a spoiled stereotype which was very unfair given my circumstances. (See my Featured story for details).

I understand I often feel that way about my daughter

Oftentimes it’s not only the parent who feels guilty. When an only child gets to a certain age they (like myself) may feel pressure to have children because their parents want grandchildren, and when their parents get to a certain age and become lonely the only child has the sole responsibility of taking care of them.

I have just one child. I am just so grateful for her presence!
I fill the house up with her friends. She seems happy and content.
She has never expressed the want for a sibling.

being an only child is no fun I have always wished I had a sister but my mom couldn't have any more kids after me so I'm an only one

I was an only child and would have liked a brother or sister but it wasn’t to be. Everything was ok though but I think having a sibling helps you communicate better with the world in later years

Have another baby 🤱

I think for a child that is happy and has other children or cousins around them then it’s not a problem. However I don’t want my 11 month old niece to be an only child because she has no cousins or other children her age around her. My sister in law is a career woman and is 36 and is not keen on having another baby because she found motherhood hard but I hope that another child comes along whether it’s a brother or sister or a cousin for my niece in the future.

Don't feel guilty. Just make another baby so she will be happy. 😃

I've had a wonderful time as an only child!

My daughter is an only child who went on to have 4 kids of her own. She never missed having siblings although she has an older step sister who she is estranged from.😌

Sometimes siblings dont get on creating tension in the family. So might be a good thing. If you feel you think she would be better off with a sibling then if theres no reason why not go for it.

I’m an only child. Sometimes I had wished I had a sibling, but it was fine. And I certainly do not want to have a 2nd kid!!!

I am not sure how that feels but I think any child would be lucky to be loved by their happy parents.

Less trouble more attention